FORSYTH COUNTY — The Forsyth County Republican Party will hear some big names, including two who have announced their presidential candidacy, this weekend as some of its members attend the annual state convention in downtown Athens.

“It gets gaveled in at 2 p.m. [Friday], but even before that … there’s a breakfast with Secretary of State Brian Kemp and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie,” said Jason Mock, who was recently elected chairman of the local GOP.

Convention-goers also will hear from special guests U.S. Sens. Johnny Isakson and David Perdue of Georgia and Marco Rubio of Florida, as well as Gov. Nathan Deal.

“Then that evening there’s the victory dinner, with special guest Sen. Ted Cruz, who has announced [his presidential bid] from Texas,” Mock said.

He added that the convention will be a great opportunity for Republicans across the state to hear from the candidates. The Forsyth GOP is sending 67 delegates and another 50 alternates to vote on party leadership.

Mock was elected chairman at the county Republican convention in March.

“The transition has gone very well,” he said. “[We are] to gain support and build our grass roots effort for 2016. Our main effort in this year is to raise money, as well as increase our membership … gearing up for the 2016 presidential run.”

The party is also interested in local elections after District 24 state Rep.  Mark Hamilton and Post 1 Cumming City Councilman Rupert Sexton recently stepped down. Mock said it may hold debates for both seats.